In recent years, cyber scams have seen a worrying increase, with phishing one of the most used tactics by cybercriminals. This method involves encouraging people to share personal or bank detailsand it becomes more and more sophisticated. One of the most worrying recent scams is one in which cybercriminals claim to be the Tax agency and asking personal and banking details to users. Phishing involves creating a sense of urgency in victims, which leads them to act without serious thought. Scammers often send text messages (SMS) which appear to come from the Treasury, indicating a “serious incident” in the tax declaration and requesting access to a fraudulent link to provide confidential information.
To counter this threat, the National Police has issued warnings through its social networks, explaining on platforms such as TikTok how these scams work and recommending not to open suspicious links. The warning is strong: “Don’t fall into the trap”. With this type of fraud on the rise, it is crucial to remain vigilant, be wary of unexpected messages and verify the authenticity of communications.
The scam that impersonates the Treasury
@policia Did you also receive this #sms? ✉️ ✋Be very careful! Don’t fall into the trap of #scam #tax #security #police #for you #advice #fraud #money #scam ♬ they are original – music_univers
The National Police has issued an alert concerning a new scam circulating by SMSin which cybercriminals impersonate the Tax Agency. This fraud aims to steal victims’ personal and banking data through a deceptive link, which forced the police to alert the population about this dangerous fraud on their social networks.
The scam starts with a text message that appears to come from the tax authorities. The content of the SMS usually raises an alarm, as it indicates a series of serious problems in the tax return that result in a high penalty. This message includes a link that directs the victim to a fake web page that imitates the appearance of the Tax Agency’s official website. On this page, users are asked to enter personal and banking information, which ends up in the hands of scammers.
By entering this information, cybercriminals can carry out fraudulent transactions or sell data on the black market. In some cases, the link also installs malware on the device, allowing attackers to access additional information on the mobile phone.
To counter this threat, the National Police launched informative videos on TikTokwhere they detail how the fraud works. Through these, they recommend not clicking on the link and avoiding sharing any type of personal information. Agents insist that “it’s not the Treasury, it’s a scam”, and they stress the importance of remaining vigilant and protected against this type of deception.
What is phishing and how to protect yourself
Phishing is a type of cyber fraud in which criminals impersonate trusted companies or institutions in an attempt to deceive people. reveal your personal information. Cybercriminals use fake emails, text messages or websites that imitate the originals, seeking to obtain data such as passwords, credit card numbers and banking credentials.
This type of scam is based on social engineeringmanipulating victims through alarming or urgent messages into taking action without thinking. Cybercriminals use various techniques to gain people’s trust and trick them into voluntarily disclosing their information.
Typically, attackers send a message that appears to come from a trusted source, such as a bank or government. This message usually includes a link to a fake websitedesigned to look like a legitimate site, and ask for sensitive data. Once the victim enters their information, criminals use it to commit financial fraud or sell it on the black market.
- Be wary of unexpected messages: If you receive an email or message asking for personal information, check the source before providing information.
- Check links: Before clicking on a link, make sure the URL matches the official URL. If it’s suspicious, don’t access it.
- Don’t download suspicious files: Fraudulent email attachments often contain malware. Only download files from trusted sources.
- Install security software: Having good antivirus and antimalware is essential for detecting and blocking phishing attacks.
- Keep your software up to date: Software updates fix vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit.
- Use two-factor authentication (2FA): This security system adds an extra layer of protection, even if someone steals your password.
- Check website certificates: Make sure pages have a valid SSL certificate (with “https” in the URL) before entering sensitive information.
